Wisconsin Recall Seen As A Preview Of November’s Races

Republican Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, right, and Democratic challenger Tom Barrett participate in a televised debate Thursday night in Milwaukee. (AP)

BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Madison, Wis. — Former President Bill Clinton is set to fire up Democrats in Milwaukee just four days ahead of the recall election targeting Republican Gov. Scott Walker.

Clinton’s visit Friday on behalf of Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett marks the latest in a string of high-profile Democrats who have campaigned on his behalf in recent days. President Barack Obama has not gotten publicly involved in the recall.

Clinton was to appear at a morning rally with Barrett to encourage voters to cast their ballots early.

Walker was campaigning Friday with South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who has called herself a “union buster” and considers her state’s low union membership rate an economic development tool.

The recall was spurred by Walker’s proposal last year that effectively ended collective bargaining rights for most state workers.

The recall election has been unlike anything seen before in Wisconsin, with at least $62 million spent by the candidates and outside groups so far, based on a tally released Thursday by the government watchdog group the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign.

Walker was the top spender at $29 million with Democrats including Barrett spending about $4 million. Outside groups have spent $21 million and issue ad groups that don’t have to disclose their spending have put in at least $7.5 million.

Guest:

• Mary Spicuzza, reporter for the Wisconsin State Journal